Tuesday, October 12, 2010

I'm Angry

So, please forgive the nature of this post.

First and foremost, let me say that ANY PROJECT or ACT that defends a persecuted group of society is a noble one. Recently, the number of teenagers committing suicide after enduring taunts related to their sexuality is heartbreaking. Public awareness is being raised and celebrity support is being inspired and expressed and I think it's great. I hope it leads to dramatic social reform and acts of mercy for children who are targeted and attacked for circumstances beyond their control.

But, in the meantime, shut UP about Dan Savage. I can fully celebrate the spirit and intention of his "It Gets Better" project, but I cannot celebrate that man as the epitome of social compassion and political correctness.

The number of times he employs the term "retard" in his syndicated column is disgusting. For a delightful taste of his work and perspective, go ahead and view this blog post. This post, in no way employs the term "retard" as a generic piece of slang. To make sure you understand the group he's referring to, Mr. Savage follows the use of the term immediately with a visual depiction of individuals with Down syndrome.

I hope things get better for the teenagers struggling with their own identity and daily suffering through social persecution as they do. But things will NOT get better for MY children if highly celebrated public figures are allowed to use one side of their mouths to rally support for the oppressed and the other side of their mouths to sling insults at an even more defenseless group.

Hooray and hallelujah for those rising up to defend ANY PERSON enduring social discrimination, labeling or chronic underestimation.

But you'll forgive me for sitting on my hands during any rounds of applause directed at Mr. Savage. It's the only way I can be sure the fingers with which I'd prefer to salute him are held at bay.

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About Me

every morning i wake up with the solitary goal of ending the day with our house still standing. every morning pudge and biggie wake up with the shared goal of bringing this house DOWN. check in for daily updates on who's in the lead.